Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Friday in the Azure City

Today, Chefchaouen truly revealed its magic. After a slightly rocky start trying to find a travel adapter, the day unfolded into a vibrant tapestry of blue hues, bustling markets, and the warm smiles of the locals. It's a city that invites you to simply wander and get lost in its beauty, and that's exactly what we did.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sofia. I opted for the traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey and a strong coffee – the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Lena, ever the health enthusiast, chose a fruit salad and mint tea. As we ate, we discussed our plan for the day, eager to dive into the heart of Chefchaouen's Medina.

Our first stop was Plaza Uta el Hamman, the central square of Chefchaouen. The plaza was already buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all soaking in the atmosphere. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, all offering a prime view of the Grand Mosque and the Kasbah. I took a moment to capture the scene with my camera, trying to frame the perfect shot that would encapsulate the energy of the place. Lena, meanwhile, was sketching in her notebook, capturing the essence of the architecture with her artistic eye.


Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Chefchaouen at Plaza Uta el Hamman, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

From the plaza, we decided to join a walking tour with Blue Medina Tours. I am generally not a fan of guided tours, but Lena insisted, and I must admit, it was a great decision. Our guide, a local named Hassan, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his city. He shared stories and insights that we would never have discovered on our own. He led us through the labyrinthine streets of the Medina, pointing out hidden gems and explaining the history behind the blue-washed walls.


Immerse yourself in the charm of Chefchaouen with Blue Medina Tours, where vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history await every traveler.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its colors, but in the stories whispered through its ancient streets.

Hassan explained that the tradition of painting the walls blue dates back to the 15th century when Jewish refugees fleeing the Spanish Inquisition settled in Chefchaouen. They believed that the blue dye resembled the sky and would remind them of God. Over time, the practice was adopted by the wider community, and now it's what makes Chefchaouen so unique.

As we walked, I couldn't help but be captivated by the endless photo opportunities. Every corner seemed to offer a new perspective, a new shade of blue. I experimented with different angles and compositions, trying to capture the essence of the city. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, was busy photographing the intricate patterns on the doors and walls.

One of the highlights of the tour was a visit to the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen. Although non-Muslims are not allowed inside, we were able to admire its architecture from the outside. Hassan explained that the mosque was built in the 15th century by the founder of Chefchaouen, Moulay Ali Ben Rachid. Its octagonal minaret is a distinctive feature of the city's skyline.


Discover the stunning Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, an architectural gem that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Morocco amidst the breathtaking blue-washed city.

After the tour, we were feeling peckish, so we headed to Assaada for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. I ordered the tagine with chicken and olives, a classic Moroccan dish that was bursting with flavor. Lena opted for the vegetarian couscous, which was equally delicious. We ate on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the panoramic views of the city.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.

With our bellies full, we decided to do some shopping. Chefchaouen is known for its handicrafts, particularly its woven blankets and carpets. We stumbled upon Blue. concept store, a shop that sells a variety of locally made products. I was immediately drawn to the colorful blankets, each one unique in its design. After much deliberation, I chose a beautiful blue and white blanket as a souvenir. Lena, meanwhile, found a stunning silver necklace with a Berber design.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Bar Oum Rabie, a local bar with a relaxed atmosphere. We ordered some mint tea and sat on the terrace, watching the city slowly transform as the lights came on. The blue walls seemed to glow in the twilight, creating a magical ambiance. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Bar Oum Rabie, a charming grill and wine bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.

For dinner, we decided to try Mandala, a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. I ordered the seafood paella, a dish that reminded me of my home in Costa Rica. Lena chose the vegetarian curry, which was equally flavorful. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the service was excellent.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

As we walked back to Maison D'hôtes Afassi, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. Chefchaouen had exceeded all my expectations. It's a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, when we plan to visit the Waterfalls Akchour and Parc National de Talassemtane. I've heard they are breathtaking, and I can't wait to capture their beauty with my camera. But for now, it's time to rest and dream of blue.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen at Maison D'hôtes Afassi, a cozy retreat with convenient amenities for travelers seeking adventure.

Before drifting off to sleep, I finally managed to borrow a travel adapter from one of the hotel staff – crisis averted! It's funny how the smallest things can sometimes cause the biggest headaches when you're traveling. I also made a mental note to buy a portable charger tomorrow. It's essential to stay connected, especially when you're relying on your phone for navigation and photography.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore beyond the city walls. We'll start with an early breakfast at Café Sindibad before heading to the Akchour Waterfalls and Parc National de Talassemtane. I've heard the hike to the waterfalls can be a bit challenging, so I'm glad I packed my comfortable walking shoes. Lena is particularly excited about visiting the national park, as she's always been fascinated by nature. We might also stop by Bazar Sahara to pick up some souvenirs before heading back to Chefchaouen for dinner at Restaurant Bab Kasaba.

It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel. The chance to immerse myself in a new culture, to discover hidden gems, and to create lasting memories with the people I love – it's what makes life so rich and rewarding. And to be able to share these experiences with you all through this blog makes it even more special. Goodnight from the Blue Pearl, and stay tuned for more adventures tomorrow!